Ohiki

The Ohiki is defined by its compact, Chabo-like carriage and unique feathering. It stands on very short, olive-green (willow) legs, resulting in a low center of gravity where the wings often touch the ground. The most striking feature is the long, dragging saddle hackles that extend 2-6 inches (5-15cm) behind the bird, and a tail carried at a 30-degree angle that also drags.

• Comb: A medium-sized single comb, which is large for the bird's size but less massive than the Chabo.
• Earlobes: Distinctive white earlobes, though they may show a greenish-yellow tint while new feathers are growing.
• Eyes: Fiery orange-red to red-brown.
• Body: The rump is raised and well-rounded, giving it a sturdy, dwarfed appearance.

As a highly ornamental long-tailed breed, the Ohiki is not a prolific layer. Hens typically produce a modest amount of small white to cream-colored eggs, usually averaging around 60-100 eggs per year. They are known to be good mothers and will often go broody, which is essential for maintaining this rare breed's population.

Gender dimorphism in Ohikis is significant due to the specialized feathering of the male. Roosters possess the legendary long tails and dragging saddle hackles that can reach lengths of 24-31 inches (60-80cm), with some strains reaching up to 40 inches (100cm). Hens, while lacking the dragging tail, have a very full and uniquely shaped tail that enthusiasts describe as resembling an artichoke. The hen's carriage is also more horizontal compared to the rooster.

Ohikis are surprisingly cold hardy once they reach maturity. However, they are sensitive to drastic environmental changes. Because their feathers drag on the ground, they must be kept in warm, completely dry conditions to prevent damage to their plumage and to keep the birds healthy. Dampness is the primary enemy of the Ohiki's specialized feathers.

In their native Japan, the Ohiki is recognized in three primary color patterns:

• Black Breasted Red (Red Hackled): The most common variety, featuring rich orange-red hackles.
• Black Breasted Silver (White Hackled): Features striking silver-white hackles against a black base.
• White: A pure, solid white variety.

The Ohiki originated in the Kochi Prefecture of Japan during the Edo Period (1600-1868), the same region that produced the famous Onagadori. Its name, Ohiki, literally translates to 'tail-dragging' (O = tail, Hiki = dragging). While often confused with the Chabo or Minohiki, DNA research indicates they are a distinct lineage related to the Shôkoku and Totenko. The breed was designated a Special Natural Monument and 'Cultural Inheritance of Japan' in 1923.

Unlike the Chabo, the Ohiki does not carry the lethal short-legged gene. Their short stature is governed by a different set of genetic factors, often referred to as an intermediate factor for leg length. This makes them easier to breed without the 25% embryo mortality rate associated with many other short-legged breeds. They also possess genes for fast feather growth, which is common among Japanese long-tail breeds.